Udupi, August 18, 2025: In response to persistent heavy rainfall and a red alert issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Karnataka State Natural Disaster Management Centre, Bengaluru, the Udupi district administration has announced a holiday for all anganwadis, primary and high schools, pre-university colleges, and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) on August 19, 2025. The red alert, effective from August 18 to August 19, warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds (40-50 kmph) and high sea waves in the Arabian Sea, posing risks of flooding and landslides in coastal areas.
The IMD forecast indicates heavy rainfall across Karnataka’s coastal regions, including Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada, for the next five days, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers expected on August 20. The District Disaster Management Authority has issued the following precautionary guidelines:
- Public Safety: Residents, tourists, and fishermen are urged to avoid rivers, water bodies, and the sea. During heavy rain, winds, or lightning, people, especially children and workers, should seek shelter in safe buildings and refrain from outdoor activities.
- Avoid Hazardous Areas: Stay away from weak or old buildings, trees, power poles, and severed electrical wires to prevent accidents.
- Landslide Precautions: In areas prone to landslides, residents should contact the nearest Tahsildar’s office or Gram Panchayat and relocate to relief centers in advance.
- General Advisory: For the next seven days, avoid unnecessary travel due to expected heavy rain and winds. Those in vulnerable buildings should move to nearby relief centers.
For assistance, contact the District Disaster Management Control Room or respective Taluk Tahsildar offices. District and taluk officials, nodal officers, and local disaster management committee members are directed to remain stationed and actively manage potential crises.
This decision follows multiple school closures in Udupi due to heavy rainfall earlier this year, with measures like full-day Saturday classes introduced to compensate for lost instructional time. The administration is on high alert, with emergency services ready to respond to any incidents caused by the severe weather conditions.
